With more teams using 3-4 alignments, outside linebackers who can both cover and get to the quarterback are prized possessions. Teams looking for the next Von Miller or Aldon Smith could get lucky in the 2013 NFL Draft, particularly at the top. Ranking the best outside linebackers:

1. Dion Jordan, Oregon (6-6 ¼, 248 pounds). His athleticism as a pass rusher makes him a certain top 10 pick. He'll probably be most effective as an outside linebacker in a 3-4, but he can also put his hand in the ground and get to the quarterback as a 4-3 defensive end. It helps his stock that his college coach, Chip Kelly, holds the No. 4 pick. Jordan could go at that spot. Projection: Won't last past No. 6.

2. Jarvis Jones, Georgia (6-2, 245). Jones would be the top prospect at his position, if not for concerns about his spinal stenosis. He led the nation in sacks and has instant impact potential. Some teams will take him off the board, but others will be more than willing to take a chance on a potential star. Projection: Possibly top 10, won't fall past No. 15.

3. Barkevious Mingo, LSU (6-4 ¼, 241). A strong Combine has elevated his stock. Mingo is still fighting the label of being a player who operates on cruise control at times. But he also enjoyed periods of dominant play. Sam Montgomery was more consistent player at LSU, but Mingo is viewed as having a greater upside. Projection: Top 15 for sure, and may sneak into top 10.

4. Corey Lemonier, Auburn (6-3 3/8, 255). His stock has dropped somewhat since the middle of last season, but he could still be a late first-round pick. Long arms with quickness off the ball, he should be a consistent pass rusher in the NFL. Projection: Likely second round, but could be late first.

5. Arthur Brown, Kansas State (6-0, 241). He played both inside and outside linebacker in college, but most scouts believe Brown is better suited to play outside in the NFL. Did well in pass coverage for the Wildcats, and he was also an excellent tackler. The brother of Eagles running back Bryce Brown will find a home in the NFL. Projection: Second round.

6. Alex Okafor, Texas (6-4 ½, 264). A powerful pass rusher, not spectacular but solid. Had an impressive 12½ sacks last season. Didn't workout at the Combine because of injury, but scouts are already familiar with his abilities. Projection: Mid-second round.

7. Brandon Jenkins, Florida State (6-2, 251). He didn't run at the Combine because of a foot injury, but he was a consistent pass rusher. Draft stock was higher after junior season, but he is still a solid prospect. Projection: Late second round.

8. Chase Thomas, Stanford (6-3 ¼, 244). His slow 40 at the Combine (4.91) didn't ease concerns about his quickness. However, nobody questions his effort. Plays through the whistle on every play. He'll get sacks and should help on special teams. Projection: Third round.

9. Khaseem Greene, Rutgers (6-0 ¾, 241). He was the Big East Defensive Player of the Year the past two seasons. Rutgers players have done well recently in the NFL, and Greene has the potential to be next in line. Projection: Third round.

10. Gerald Hodges, Penn State (6-1, 243). Converted from safety to linebacker as he got bigger, and still has good ball skills. Scouts expect him to be solid as a pass defender, but most prove his worth against the run and rushing the passer. Projection: Fourth round.

11. Sean Porter, Texas A&M (6-1 ¼, 229). Started as a freshman, and was effective as a blitzing linebacker. He has played in both 3-4 and 4-3 schemes, and that experience should help his NFL adjustment. Projection: Fourth round.

12. Zaviar Gooden, Missouri (6-1 ½, 234). Plays with intensity, should be a special teams contributor at worst. If he gets stronger, there is potential to become a starter in two or three years. Projection: Late fourth round, or early fifth.

13. DeVonte Holloman, South Carolina (6-1 3/8, 243). Another former safety that converted to linebacker. Reads well, but sometimes gets overpowered by blockers. Will have to work for roster spot, but will get drafted on Saturday. Projection: Late fourth round, early fifth.

14. Michael Buchanan, Illinois (6-5 3/8, 255). Played a variety of positions in college, which should help his adjustment to the NFL. His stock was higher after his junior season; Buchanan was not as impressive as a senior. The team that drafts him must hope that the right system and coaching staff brings out his best. Projection: Fifth round.

15. Jamie Collins, Southern Mississippi (6-3 ½, 250). Running a 4.6 40 at the Combine put him on more teams' watch lists. Collins can also play defensive end, and he has helped his stock this offseason. How he fares during private workouts will factor into how high he is drafted. Projection: Fifth round.

16. Sio Moore, Connecticut (6-0 ¾, 245). Had 31 starts in college, making him one of this position's most seasoned players. Not a bigger hitter, but he is versatile enough to play inside or outside linebacker, which adds to his value. Projection: Fifth round.

17. Ty Powell, Harding (6-2, 249). Playing in the Senior Bowl gave Powell extra exposure that he needed. He also looked good at the Combine and at his Pro Day. He will be rewarded for his hard work on draft day. Projection: Fifth round.

18. Trevardo Williams, Connecticut (6-1 ¼, 241). A sprinter in high school, Williams is a speed rusher who can beat blockers with his quick first step. Will have to get stronger and expand moves to excel in NFL, but he is worth a draft pick. Projection: Fifth round.

19. Jelani Jenkins, Florida (6-0, 243). Injuries in college have teams questioning his durability. He has the talent to be a second-day pick, but will likely wait until Saturday to hear his name. Projection: Late fifth round, early sixth.

20. Brandon Magee, Arizona State (5-11, 223). A fine baseball player, Magee was thought of more highly before a torn Achilles injury in 2011. Seems to have lost quickness, but should be drafted. Projection: Sixth round.